Scrappin' Patch

Winners Challenge Week 3...

2012-01-24T11:57:00.001+13:00

Congratulations to all those who submitted creations this week...absolutely stunning work!!!!

And the winners are:

Stationery Challenge -

Jeljane....

Winners of the weekly layout challenge...

Anne T - WINNER

Lainie T - 2nd

Andrea D - 3rd

Well done, girls.

It's Big....It's Fun Challenge Week 4

2012-01-23T00:30:00.000+13:00

Six Week Stationary Challenge -

Create a journaling notebook or a diary. Every scrapbooker or cardmaker needs a journal notebook to record those 'special conversations or oneliners things that were said by your toddler', journal prompts, birthday dates, annieversaries, title ideas, sketches, loved quotes, printed ideas etc. The criteria for this is - you must use fabric, a button, twine or string, and stamping - you can use more than this but this is the minimum. You do not have to create the notebook from scratch, you can use a purchased one and alter it, and it can be any size. Upload your take to our gallery by 9am on 30 January

Weekly Challenge

Create a layout about your country - what do you love about where you live or where you were born? What is special or different about your country? You must include two items that are specific to your country - they can be photographed or a piece of memorabilia - and your layout must be created using the colours of your national flag. Upload your take to our gallery by 9am on 30 January 2012. You MUST include the name of the country you have scrapped about and the flag colours.

Thanks for taking part :)

Fun on Facebook today and September Retreat

2012-01-21T13:10:00.001+13:00

Check out our Facebook page today - Annelie has some fun planned with RAKS and vouchers to give away!!!!

Details will be available for our Retreat in September - check the Retreat blog for details and be sure to book in early as spaces are limeted!!!

Introducing our lovely Guest Designers for 2012

2012-01-19T13:29:00.000+13:00

Welcome aboard Sara Zenger and April Walker from the US, and Jessica Toulmin from NZ!!

Hi I am Sara Zenger and I am honored to be working with the Scrappin' Patch! I live in Northern NY with my husband, our one 7yr old son (Cole) and our new puppy (Bauer).

I have been scrapbooking for about eight years and have loved every minute of it! I dont think I have a particular style but I do gravitate to making things with dimension - I go to through pop-dots and foam tape like you would not believe! My favorite manufactures are Sassafrass Lass, Crate Paper, October Afternoon, Pink Paislee just to name a few.

I am a craft alcoholic! I love creating scrapbooking layouts but that is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to my crafty love. I love to make cards, home decor, gift bags, banners, playing with fabric and more! I am blessed to say that I have made many new friends both locally and online since my crafty days started! These friendship mean so much to me! There is nothing better than sharing something your passionate about with others that share the same passion.

I organize monthly craft days at my home (Scrap N Chat Days is what we call them) for a group of about 20 local girls. Then once a year I organize a weekend long (Friday- Sunday) retreat where we all stay over and all our meals are provided there are goodie bags and prizes galore! This past October I hosted my 8th Crop Til You Drop Retreat to 79 girls! I love doing this for them!

I wish I could say I crafted all day but I do have a 'real world' job as a manager of a convenient store. When I am not working or crafting I enjoy being outdoors with my family, working out, reading, baking/ cooking or taking photos!

Check out Sara's blog too!!!

Thanks!

Sara

Welcome aboard Jessica!!!

Hello, my name is Jessica Toulmin and I live in Bulls, New Zealand, with my wonderful fiancé. Together we have a very boisterous two year old son, who I am a stay at home Mum for.

I have been a crafter since I was born, making all sorts of embellished pictures, books, cards, paintings, cushion covers, clothing and decorations, to name just a few. I have tried almost everything crafty there is to try, but have settled predominantly on 12x12 layouts and cards in the last five years or so.

I do like to experiment and try new things; however my typical style is clean & simple.

Craft is my passion – every available opportunity I get I am creating something. I am absolutely thrilled to have been chosen for a guest designer spot for Scrappin’ Patch in 2012. You can see more of my work on my blog.”

Thanks,

Jess

And a big welcome to April!!!

Hi there!! My name is April Walker and I’m 34. I’ve been married to an amazing man named Mark, also 34, for 13 years and we have two beautiful daughters, Emily and Madison. We live in the gorgeous mountains of western NC and absolutely love it here!

I’ve been a scrapbooker for 3 1/2 years now and I seriously can’t imagine my life without this amazing hobby. I’ve always loved taking pictures ever since I was a little girl, and once I was married with kids, the urge to take them grew even more! I felt like the amazing memories I was capturing needed to be preserved in a better way than just being stuck into photo albums though, so I looked into how I could change that. I searched around online, came across a scrapbooking site, and was instantly hooked! To me, there’s nothing quite like taking a picture, pairing it with some amazing supplies and a story, and creating a memory that’ll last a lifetime. I’m thankful every time I create something new that I found this part of my life and I know I’ll never quit!

Check out April's blog for some lovely inspiration.

Keep an eye out for these girls work during the year and be sure to check out their blogs and leave them a lovely comment :)

Adrienne

Utilising Scraps

2012-01-17T13:58:00.002+13:00

What an exciting week its been with all the Design Team announcements being made! Its nice to be working with some familiar faces and lovely to see some amazing new talent joining our wee team :)

The last time I posted, I showed you a mini album I created using Pink Paislee Vintage Vogue collection. You can see it here. And I promised you I would show you what I did with some scraps. So here goes!

Recently I purchased a Sizzix die, a pillow box. I had in mind a birthday gift for my mum coming up soon, so I thought this is the perfect opportunity to tuck inside a necklace I had bought for her. I had just enough paper left over to make the pillow box and a card to match. Ive also used some of that dimensional black ribbon that Adrienne stocks - just love this stuff, it gives dimension to any project without even having to think about it :) what more you want!

The sketch for the card I found at Juliana Michaels blog, she does some amazing sketches, and I like the versatility of using them for cards as well as layouts. Heres her blog: www.17turtles.blogspot.com

Well, I hope this as inspired you to get using those scraps - my resolution this year is to make a card after every layout or OTP is completed, with the scraps, wonder how long I can keep it up!

Happy Scrapping everyone!
Megan

GREAT Webster´s Pages NEWS

2012-01-16T22:36:00.001+13:00

Hi Ladies,

Nina here. I would like to share some great news with you!
At the beginning of 2012 I´ve got a mail from Webster´s Pages. I´m a "Webster´s Pages clean and simple" designteam member *yeeee*
And I have to hold the secret until now....

I am very happy to be a part of Webster's Pages and the warmth welcome from Brandin, Anabelle, Courtney and the other girls still completely has blown me away...

Thanks, and have a nice week...

Winners....

2012-01-16T09:30:00.000+13:00

Congratulations to the following ladies for their submissions. Check out the close ups in the gallery.

1st Michelle van Oudtshoorn

2nd Anne Tripney

3rd Tanya Watson

Winner of the Stationery Challenge - Angie B

Have a great week,
Adrienne

It's Big.....It's Fun Challenge 3

2012-01-16T07:35:00.001+13:00

And for this week....

Six Week Stationery Challenge
Create a set of 4 or six cards that have been inspired by one of the projects of our OTP designers - Rebecca, Lana, or Megan - that was revealed in the DT announcements. Also create a 'container' to store the cards in. Check out this example by Sarah, one of our recent OTP designers for inspiration.

Weekly Challenge
Create a layout based on one of the images of our 'layout' design team members - Annelie, Erin, Nina, Michelle, Heidi, Belinda - that was revealed in the DT announcements.

When you post your layout or cards in the gallery you must include whose project you have been inspired by and which aspects you have included from it. Check out the girls blogs for a huge amount of inspiration.

If you haven't submitted anything in the first two weeks it is not too late. The points board is wide open.......we would love you to join us!!! Weekly prize of $10.00 voucher to the winners of each challenge, and a $100 product prize pack to the person with the most points at the end of the competition. You gotta be in to win!!!

Upload your take to our gallery by 9am on Monday 23 January 2012.

And staying on for 2012...

2012-01-13T21:30:00.001+13:00

The very talented Megan Gourlay. I am thrilled that she decided to stay on board to complete the team.

My names is Megan Gourlay and I live in a little town called Woodend just outside of quake central, otherwise known as Christchurch, New Zealand with my husband Forbes and our two woofers Dougal and McKenzie.

I originally started making cards back in 2001 and then progressed to OTP which is my main addiction. Its only in the last four years that Ive got into layouts which I love creating but my main passion is OTP. Ive always had a creative streak - before Scrapbooking came along I was mad into cross-stitching and embroidery.

Im not sure if I have a style, but I tend to lean towards anything heritage, and have quite a, probably unhealthy addiction to flowers :)

Im looking forward to another creative term with Scrappin Patch! You can catch up on whatever else I get up to on my blog.

Megan

Introducing another local girl.......Belinda Leen

2012-01-13T12:58:00.001+13:00

I am thrilled to welcome another Cantabrian to our team to complete our full team. Check back over the next day or so to meet our guest designers.....

Hi guys!My name is Belinda Leen and I’m a local Christchurch girl in this bumpy city. Mum to 3 energetic boys including one wee recent additionwho is 8 weeks old, partner to the loving and very understanding Matthew, andpart time art history student at Canterbury University.

I havebeen scrapbooking for 7 years now and have been lucky enough to work inscrapbooking retail, tutoring, and have tried my hand at Design Team work oncebefore.

I am uberexcited to join Adrienne and her team at Scrappin’ Patch and hopefully will getall your creative juices flowing as I scrap my way into 2012!

And returning to the team......Michelle Whorwood

2012-01-12T16:45:00.000+13:00

I am thrilled to welcome Michelle back onto the team for 2012. Her style is an ever popular one both online and instoreand will complement the team well.

Hi, my name is Michelle Whorwood and I live in Albany on the North Shore of Auckland, New Zealand with my husband, Gary. We currently have two kids Liam (7 years) and Taylor Grace (17 months) and another little bundle on the way in April as well as our very bouncy Retrospoodle dog, Indy.

I started scrapbooking about 5 years ago when Liam was little and it has been the one hobby that I have ever stuck with long term and I can't think of any reason why I would ever stop. My scrapbooking style is ever evolving but you will definitely find lots of layers on my layouts and I love trying out new products and testing the boundaries in my scrapbooking. When I'm not scrapbooking you will find me hanging out with my family, drinking good coffee and shopping!

I would say that Scrapbooking for me is like therapy… I find it very relaxing and it’s often my time out or my ‘me time’. I love that scrapbooking enables me to preserve my families’ memories, to be creative and allows me to indulge in some retail therapy all at the same time.

I'm super excited to be back on the Scrappin' Patch team for another term! Feel free to visit my blog.

Introducing......Nina Ostermann

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000+13:00

Join me in welcoming Nina all the way from Germany. Nina has a gorgeous style, she will inspire you to create beautiful things.

Hi there, my name is Nina Ostermann. I´m 32, and I live with my husband and our

2 kids (boy and girl) in Germany. At this time I´m a stay at home mum.

I started scrapbooking over 5 years ago and I can´t live without it. It

inspires me new everyday. Yes, I’m a paper crafter from heart.

Here in Germany, scrapbooking is not as well known and I would love to change

it. I think we’re on our way…

My favorite people to document in my layouts are definitely the kids. I love to

document their childhood, and I love to take photos.

So I have definitely have enough stuff to scrapbook.

Aside from scrapbooking I love to play piano and guitar. I spend a lot of time

with my family and also like to visit flea markets.

I’m so thrilled to be designing for Scrappin´Patch and sharing my passion for

scrapbooking with you!

You can follow me on my blog.

Welcoming back.....Heidi Barclay

2012-01-10T22:31:00.003+13:00

Heidi had taken a 6 month break from DT work but now she is back at the Patch to inspire you with the rest of the talented team.....more still to be announced.

Hi, my name is Heidi and I live in Christichurch with hubby, Richard and two daughters Abigail and Emma. We are originally from SA but moved to NZ in 2000, spent 10 years in Auckland and then decided we needed a lifestyle change and moved down South, to Canterbury and have not looked back.

I am a customs broker and work for one of NZ's largest Freight Forwarders and love my job. I have been scrapbooking for 7 years now. Initially I started buying stuff at the Warehouse and then I discovered on-line scrapbook stores and was totally hooked. I have been on two design teams before, one with Scrapbook Studio where I taught classes in Auckland and then down in Christchurch was part of the Scrappin Patch design Team from 2009 to 2011.

My style has certainly changed since I first started scrapping, I went through a Shabby Chic style and then an arty farty style which I seem to enjoy more now. My favourite manufacturers at the moment are Echo Park, Simple Stories, Lilly Bee Design, October Afternoon, and Little Yellow Bicycle. I love using Distress Inks, Glimmermist, Paint, adding texture and adding lots of little bits and pieces.

I am absolutely thrilled to be part of the design team for 2012 and look forward to working with all the talented ladies on the Design Team. Please visit my blog.

OTP Upcycling!

2012-01-10T13:28:00.000+13:00

Hi Everyone!

Please note this post is photo heavy!

My DT kit this month included some lovely 6x12in papers and embellishments from Pink Paislees Vintage Vogue collection and two bottles of Tattered Angels Glimmer Glaze. I decided to make use of my Prima packaging and create a mini album of the first ever scrapbook retreat I ever went to, Autumn Escape in Taupo. You can tell how long Ive had some of this packaging by the colour of it :), its one of the original packaging.

I used a few techniques to decorate the packaging. Embossing the cardstock and then dry brushing over it to highlight it with white paint. Then I put some glimmer glaze into a Tim Holtz mini mister and lightly sprayed over the whole thing. With the Collections dress forms on the front, I embossed one of them and painted both with glimmer glaze and layered them on top of each other. The glimmer glaze comes in a little 1oz bottle with a screw top lid and a brush attached, a bit like a nail polish bottle. The colours I used were Aloha Green and Hawaiian Hibiscus. I used the brush application to paint some white flowers in both of these colours to match the papers. By the time I finished the album I decided I preferred the glaze to the mists because they're more versatile in that you can spray or paint so easily, instead of just having a spraying option.

Hopefully this has given you a few ideas to use Glimmer Glaze for, and that even smaller pieces of paper can be enough to decorate a mini album. Its in the the shop now. And wait til you see what I did with the scraps!

Happy scrapping everyone!

Introducing.......Rebecca Lynn

2012-01-10T08:11:00.000+13:00

Welcome to the Patch as on OTP design team member, Rebecca. I am so excited that you have decided to come on board!!

"Wife, sister, daughter, auntie, and partner in crime. Night owl, chocolate fanatic, and occasionally compulsively creative. Eager to learn, excessively curious, and ready to find. Lover of all things vintage, pretty packaging, and handmade embellishments. Check out my blog, Polkadot Door Designs.

Introducing......Erin Blegen

2012-01-09T11:41:00.001+13:00

Another very talented scrapbooker whom I am thrilled to introduce to you all the way from the US.... I am so honoured that each new designer has chosen the Patch to design for!!!!

H! My name is Erin Blegen my husband Josh and I have been together for 5 years. We have 3 beautiful children together: Wyatt (4), Gunner (17 months), and Aspen (4 months), to whom I am a stay-at-home mom. We also have 32 chickens and one Chihuahua, Luxor. Our home is a small cabin in the woods of northeastern Minnesota, USA. We love ANYTHING outdoors! But indoors, my passion is most definitely scrapbooking.

I first tried it out in 2007 when Wyatt was born, completed one album, and quit until my second son was born in July 2010. Since then, I've been HOOKED! I am a daily scrapper and I love working with beautiful paper and lots of embellishments (ESPECIALLY flowers). I have experiemented with many different styles and seem to have fallen into (and in love with) shabby chic. But I'm also known to have an artsy/messy side and love to work with paint, mists, masks, and mess!~ but make it look good at the same time .

But most importantly, I preserving my precious photographs and the not-to-be-forgotten memories that go with them. I like knowing that I am documenting history to be enjoyed for years to come.

Thank-you so much Adrienne for the opportunity to join your very talented team! I am so excited to start!

Please feel free to stop by my blog, which I share with my sister and best friend Kelly!

It's Big.....It's Fun Challenge Week 2

2012-01-09T09:27:00.000+13:00

What a huge amount of talent!!!!! Lots of lovely double page layouts and pencil containers in the gallery. Be sure to pop in and comment :)

Points have been awarded as follows:
SIX WEEK CHALLENGE WINNER - Gypsykate. Check out her gorgeous pencil/pen holder.

Weekly places:

1st: Beautiful US by Michelle van Oudtshoorn

2nd : JelJane

3rd: Scraphappy

This week's challenges are:

STATIONERY CHALLENGE
Create a shopping list or note pad, perhaps with a magnet for on your fridge, or a chalkboard version!!!! Just a little hint about a future challenge - it will involve a notebook.....

And here are a couple of ideas for you:
Chalkboard from Micheals.com
Paper Notepads from the My Mind's Eye blog

Winner is decided by random draw.

WEEKLY CHALLENGE
Create a layout about your (or a friend or family member's) favourite book(s) or movie(s) of all time. The only 'must' include on your layout is a mini book with a least a cover and one inside page - the size, style, colour, design, shape is up to you - let those creative juices flow!!!! No photo is required. Layout can be any size. These are the minimum requirements.....you can add anything else you would like :)
Winner is chosen by judging panel.

When you upload your image please include your name in the title and the list of the required products. Upload your creations to the gallery by 9am Monday 16 January 2012.

Happy Scrapping!!!! Check back later for more Design Team announcements.....

Introducing........Annelie Maddock

2012-01-08T07:23:00.001+13:00

I am thrilled to welcome Annelie back to our team in 2012. She was one of my original DT memebers and she was greatly missed when it came time to part.

My name is Annelie Maddock, and I’m very excited to be backon the Scrappin’ Patch team !!

I was born in Sweden, but have lived in Auckland, NewZealand, since 2003. I’m married to Kelly and mum to two gorgeous girls; Tovaand Elsa. I work full time as an executive PA, so I’m keeping myself busy!

I’m also a cancer survivor and try to live every day to thefullest!

My passion for scrapbooking started in 2006, and since thenI have created something just about every day. I go crazy if I don’t! I love bothshabby chic style and bright colours, I am addicted to alphabets, and I like addinglittle random bits to my pages. It’s important for me to scrap everydaystories, but I also scrap my favourite photos again and again just becausethey’re gorgeous!

I make cards and OTP projects as well, but am yet to feelconfident in that field.

Please visit my blog, I have lots to share.

Introducing..... Lana Wigley

2012-01-08T07:07:00.002+13:00

I am super excited to welcome Lana to the Patch Design Team for 2012. More announcements will be made over the coming days.

Hi! I'm Lana and I live in Christchuch with my partner Grant, and our super spoilt pets Oscar the cat, Bailey the black lab, and our fish Olly and Jack.

By day I'm a senior graphic designer at a design agency in the city (the part that's left), by night you can find me enjoying my number 1 passion - cardmaking. I've been making cards for as long as I can remember. I started experimenting with embellishments and different papers 11 years ago when I visited my first scrapbooking store here in Christchurch. Since then I've built up a great collection of papers, embellishments and tools that I'm lucky enough to create with in my own craft room. Over the years I've developed my style which is quite simple and clean but with a lot of dimension. I love using ribbons, bakers twine, buttons and punches and so much more! My favourite brands to work with include My Mind's Eye, October Afternoon, Echo Park, Imaginisce, and Kaisercraft. And I loooove Hero Arts stamps.

In early 2010 I decided to take my passion to another level and I started Craftylana. I sell premade and custom cards through my Facebook page, word of mouth and at various craft markets. The markets in particular have been a lot of fun. I've met so many lovely and inspiring people doing all forms of craft. Craftylana and cardmaking in general has also been a very welcome distraction from the challenging times us Cantabrians have had recently and will continue to have with the earthquakes.

When I'm not busy creating you can find me biking through Bottle Lake Forest, doing a bit of Zumba or baking cupcakes

I'm so thankful and honoured to have been chosen as a member of the Scrappin' Patch Design Team along with such talented designers. I can't wait to be a part of it all!

January 2012 Sketch Challenge

2012-01-02T09:33:00.001+13:00

Our first sketch challenge is a card sketch using this sketch from Page Maps...you may submit up to four cards but each must be markedly different than the others. Let's see how creative we can get with this!!! Upload your take to the gallery by 31 January 2012 to be in to win a RAK from Adrienne.

It's Big, It's Fun - Week 1 Challenge

2012-01-02T09:21:00.002+13:00

Welcome to 2012!!!!

There are two aspects to this competition......one challenge will run for the duration of 6 weeks, with a new challenge each Monday and the other will be a weekly one. The challenge is open to everyone, including recent and current DT members as none of them know anything about this comp!!!! It is open to NZ and international scrappers.

Six Week Challenge.... Create your own stationery, or some for someone else. Is your scrap room coordinated? Do all your stationery storage containers match? Would one of your children, family members, or friends appreciate a coordinating set? If you are like me nothing coordinates....in fact I don't even have anything other than plastic marmite jars LOL!!!! But this can all change :) If you have nobody to create for feel free to create a set for me!!!!! I will supply the goods LOL!!!
Over the next six weeks there will be one challenge per week so that you will end up with six beautiful items. The winners for this will be chosen by random draw.
This week's challenge is to create a pen/pencil holder. This can be for yourself or for someone else. There are no requirements as to what you should use, what shape, what products etc....it is totally up to you. Get creative, everything counts!!!! Post an image of your layout to our gallery by 9am on 9 January.

Weekly challenge - each Monday a new challenge will be posted. Challenge #1 is....

Create a double layout about US - this can be you and any other person/people :) You must include the following on your layout......3 patterned papers, 1 piece of chipboard, 1 piece of ribbon, a rubon, fussy cutting. journaling, and 4 photos. This is the minimum you must use!!!! Post your image to our gallery by 9am on 9 January 2012.

The winners for the weekly challenges will be chosen by voting from my panel of judges, none of whom are participating in this comp :)

One weekly winner from each challenge set - so two per week - will be awarded a $10.00 voucher. The overall winner will be the person with the most combined points from both challenges.

So get scrapping!!! If your weather is like ours it is cold and raining - a great day to scrap :)

It's Big, it's Fun......check this out......

2011-12-31T20:30:00.000+13:00

It's a New Year competition!!!!! There are prizes!!!! It will be fun!!!!

Welcome 2012 with a BANG!!!

How it will Work....
The competition runs from 2 January - 6 February 2012. Each Monday morning a challenge will be posted on the blog and Facebook page. You will have until 9am the following Monday to upload your submission to our gallery. Challenges will be a mixture of OTP and layouts (these can be any size you choose).

SCORING - Each submission will receive 1 pt, and the winner of each week will receive 3pts, 2nd will receive 2 pts, and 3rd will receive 1pt. Throughout the weeks there may be opportunity to win extra points on the blog or FB page as well. The winner of the competition is the person with thehighest total points. Judges decisions are final.

PRIZES - The winner of each week will win a $10.00 voucher from Scrappin' Patch, the overall winner will win a $100.00 product pack from Scrappin' Patch.

A hint for the first week.....think OTP and pens :)

Product Focus on Stamps

2011-12-30T11:01:00.009+13:00

Hi everyone,

I have to apologise this post is a wee bit late this week. The short week completely threw me and I didn't realize what day we were up too and then we got a new computer and it took a bit to set up properly. But better late than never!!

I hope you all had a nice Christmas wherever you are and if you are on holidays right now are enjoying the break. We are having nice four day weekends and I am enjoying getting some stuff done around our new place.

This month I was using the clear stamp set for the Sports Edition II collection by Teresa Collins.

This particular stamp set is so versatile to have in your stash of scrapbooking products. What I love about stamping with clear stamps is that they are relatively inexpensive because you can use them more than once rather than using up store bought embellishments. You can also choose any ink colour to match in with your project and if you wish to add dimension to your projects by stamping onto card stock or patterned paper and then raising them with foam dots. Lastly, the advantage of using a clear stamp over a wooden stamp is that you can see exactly where you are going to stamp with them which ensures that your stamped image is exactly where you would like it to be.

Creating backgrounds

The first stamping technique that I am going to share which is quite trendy at the moment in the scrapbooking world is to create effective backgrounds using stamping. This can be a bit daunting as it does mean stamping directly onto your project but don't worry if you accidentally mis-stamp the image as I do this all time and it just adds to the effect. You can always add to the image by putting an embellishment in the area that was mis-stamped in the first place. There is no right or wrong way to create backgrounds using stamped images. You can either plan it out or instead if you are like me... start with one image and then add more images until you feel it is finished.

Here is an example using the TC stamps:

On this page I have added some stars to the lefthand side of the page. I have then added some of the smaller stars from one of the other stamps and raised them with foam dots and added some of the die cuts to cover where the stars haven't completely stamped.

Another background using the stamp set - this time I have created a border strip out of stamped images and I have also coloured in the stars in red to match in with the papers used on the project.

Also, I encourage you to think outside of the square when it comes to stamping! Instead of using ink on your stamps I have picked out only a small piece of the 'Play hard' circle without the rest of the stamp and used a marker pen to colour only that piece of the stamp.

Creating embellishments using stamps

I just love adding layers and dimensions to my embellishments using clear stamps. I have done this often throughout the mini album but in the photo below you can see I have added the little crest symbol to the edge of my photo on page 3 as well as another star to my photo pocket on page 4 of my album.

Also, I created a little tab using the 'Play Hard' stamp for the person reading the album to turn over the top team photo on page 5 below.

There are so many different ways you can add stamps to your projects to add interest and layers! A couple of others that come to mind are stamping using Stazon Ink onto transparency or stamping and then using embossing powders to give your stamped images a lovely glossy look to them.

I hope the above has given you a few more ideas of how stamping can feature in your projects in the future and inspired you to go shopping in the store for some clear stamps to add to your stash!

//Michelle

OTP Inspiration

2011-12-27T18:08:00.000+13:00

Hi Everyone!

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, especially those that had to endure more earthquakes.

In my DT kit this month was a Solo Shadowbox Tray from 7 Gypsies. They come in either black or white, and the larger section of the tray will hold a 6x4 photo easily, the other three squares are about 2x2 inches. I chose to use a photo of my brother and sister and I, when I was by the look of it celebrating my very first Christmas - that would be 1970! But they are perfect for celebrating all lifes amazing events, and would make an awesome gift for someone.

My tray was white so first of all I used some Tim Holtz tissue tape and went around all the edges. I have'nt used it before - even though Ive had it in my stash for quite sometime :) but its easy as pie and best of all its self adhesive, even better! I mod podged over the top for added protection and then used two different distress inks, aged mahogany and walnut. Ive used Graphic 45 Christmas Emporium papers as embellishments to finish it off and Vintaj metal corners.
Sorry the photos are not the best, but for those in Canterbury, it will be in the shop for you to see very soon.

I hope this has inspired you to scrap with something a little different :)
Take care,
Megan

Teresa Collins Sports Edition II

2011-12-21T20:23:00.008+13:00

Hi everyone,

Today, I want to share with you a card I made using up the left over pieces from my dt kit of the Teresa Collins Sports Edition papers. Making up cards is a great way of using up those small pieces of left over patterned papers and embellishments that don't quite make it onto our layouts! I do have a stash of scraps just for this purpose but it makes way more sense to just pull together a quick card at the end of that project so you can have there ready for when you need one.

I have created a thank you card for a sports 'coach' but it could easily be adapted to fit into another different masculine themed card to suit your gift giving occasion.

Here is how I made it:

To create the background, I used this Prima Fence Mask and Texture Paste. For anyone who hasn't used a product like this before - it is super easy. I used Jo Sonya's Texture Paste and a scraper thingey (which I got from Mitre 10 Mega).

Firstly, lay the mask over the area that you wish to add the texture paste too. Holding on to the mask so it doesn't move, scrap over a thin layer of Texture Paste. A quick tip is not to paste right to the edges of the mask otherwise you will get a square look which isn't as natural looking instead pick an area of the pattern you like the most and just paste that part. The mask I used is pretty much the same width as my card so I applied texture paste to the entire background.

I then added some Slate Glimmermist to give the paste a more grungy look.

Next, I added the left over pieces of patterned papers (Practice and Blue Numbers). I also stamped out 3 stars using the Sports Edition Stamp Set which I just love as they are perfect for using on masculine cards and layouts. Lastly, I layered a couple of the diecuts to create my sentiment and matted them onto some on a banner I created from blue numbers patterned paper.

I hope I have inspired you to use up your scraps and perhaps to try and give a product like Texture Paste a go... it is such an effective and easy way of creating that extra layer of texture to your creations.

Take care
//Michelle

Step By Step with Francine-

2011-12-20T07:00:00.003+13:00

Hi everyone,

I hope that everyone is feeling the Christmas spirit and has finished all their shopping and looking forward to a nice break with family and friends.

This is my last post as a designer at Scrappin Patch and i just wanted to say a big thank you to Adrienne for choosing me to be on the team. I have thoroughly enjoyed my year and a half on the team - to all my fellow design team members both past and present thank you too for your support and encouragement. Next year promises to be a big one with 2 retreats and i know that Adrienne has lots of awesome things planned. The new design team will be sure to inspire and challenge you!

As part of my design team pack - i received a Basic Grey doily in a 12 by 12 size. I wanted to show you something different that you could try on a layout using one of these. i decided to cut it up into strips as each strip has a different pattern on it and then layer it on my page and then glimmermist it to create a funky background.

Glimmermisted in 3 colours

you get this cool effect

My finished layout with the glimmermisted background using the doily

some close ups

another close up

So before i sign off- i would like to wish everyone of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year- may 2012 be one of your best ever years!

Over and out

Francine

Christmas Ornaments

2011-12-19T17:16:00.000+13:00

Hi everyone!

I wanted to show you this very cool Christmas decoration I whipped up. The original idea is not one of my own. I first saw them on www.2gypsygirls.com last year and then they popped up again in Stamping and Papercraft magazine, Vol 16 no 8. I had wanted to make them last year but just ran out of time, but this year I was determined to give them a crack!

Heres my two decorations and then I will write up the basic instructions to complete them.

Ok, so first of all Ive just used left over scraps of paper to make the strips, and the layered poinsettia flowers. Ive added a glass decoration I found at the Warehouse and layered some glittered chipboard snowflakes I had in stash, from Kay & Co, to decorate.

Basic instructions:
Cut x7 20mm wide strips out of double sided patterned paper, and then trim them to the following lengths. You could use a variety of different papers or keep them all the same.
One strip 100mm long
Two strips 115mm long
Two strips 130mm long
Two strips 140mm long

Ink the edges of all strips now if desired.

Arrange the paper strips so they descend inwards in size, with the largest two pieces on the outside edges and the smallest in the middle.

Line up all the strips at one end and staple them together. Then line them up at the other end and staple these together too - this gives the curved effect.

Trim two 40 x 20mm strips of co-ordinating paper and fold them in half. Trim the short ends with scalloped scissors. Affix these over the top and bottom of the ornaments to hide the staples.

Set an eyelet in the top of the ornament OR just punch a hole through like I did and hide it with ribbon :), if like me you don't have eyelets.

Feed ribbon or wire through the hole you have created to hang your ornament.
Now decorate as desired!

Heres some closeups of my two examples:

Happy scrapping everyone! and Merry Christmas!

Megan

DT Inspiration - Teresa Collins Mini Album

2011-12-14T13:25:00.009+13:00

Hi everyone,

I'm excited to share my latest creation on the blog.

This month I have created a little keepsake for Liam using the Teresa Collins Sports Edition II Collection including Album Covers, patterned papers, clear stamps, and die cuts (see links below to actual products used).

Liam has been playing soccer for a number of years now and this collection has the perfect colours to match in with his club uniform. I used the TC Chipboard Album Covers in a landscape orientation and created inside pages for the mini album by using the covers as a template with the various patterned papers in the collection. I then set about creating the pages themselves! What I just love about Teresa Collins' collections is there are usually lots of designs in her papers that can be fussy cut out to create little embellishments and along with the die cuts and the clear stamps I was really spoiled for choice with what I could add to my pages. The bright blue, red, black and white colours in this collection are also striking to work with and would make stunning scrapbooking layouts as well.

If you wish to view larger images of the album, please click on the image for more detail..

Firstly, I liked the plain black part of the chipboard covers so I have used those sides for album covers.

The first two pages are about Liam's first year of playing soccer.

Then his second year of playing which includes a pocket for various photos.

And his third season of playing:

There are so many little details on this album which are hard to capture in photos. I always have lots of photos and not so much space for journalling so I have created lots of little pockets and hide away places for journalling and the extra photos. I hope you can see some of them in the below collage.

Next week, I am going to share some of the ways that I have used the clear stamps on the album in my product focus so please do check the blog again for my next blog post.

Thanks for stopping by..
//Michelle

Products used:
Teresa Collins Chipboard Album Covers Sports Edition II
Teresa Collins Sports Edition II Diecuts
Teresa Collins Sports Edition II Clear Stamps
Teresa Collins Sport Edition II Paper - Blue Numbers
Teresa Collins Sports Edition II Paper - Practice
Teresa Collins Sports Edition II Paper - Shields
Teresa Collins Sports Edition II Paper - Stars

2011-12-12T12:41:00.001+13:00

Hi Everyone! Merry Christmas to you all!

If you're like me and love altering, well anything :) you would always be on the hunt for something to revamp! In my scrap room I have a cupboard filled with quite a few alterable items, well more than a few if the truth be told hehe, but they do come in handy!
Maya Road Tins anyone? You know the ones, came out ages ago filled with chipboard items like arrows, flourishes stars etc. Well I still had a few that needed reinventing. This one Ive decorated with the scraps from my DT kit using Websters Pages Western Romance - such a lovely range, sigh.
To decorate the sides of the tin Ive cut straight strips of paper and then punched the edges with a Martha Stewart punch and then added some ribbon tape. On the top Ive done a triple bow with seam binding ribbon. On the front Ive used layers of paper cut using Spellbinders Picot Edge Circles and Labels Twenty Two. Ive also used the paper motifs as an embellishment, cutting the hat so that my 'letters' looks like they're tucked inside - Ive popped this whole thing up with foam tape, and then just added some flowers, cameo and a pin.

So there you go, quick and easy, did'nt take long at all and makes the perfect gift filled with some yummy treats.

Happy Scrapping!
Megan

In the Spotlight 'Just for Fun' Sketch Challenge from Gwen

2011-12-09T11:48:00.001+13:00

Gwen has designed this gorgeous sketch to inspire you and a beautiful example as well. Upload your take here.

Thanks Gwen!!!

Wednesday Inspiration - Basic Grey- Little Black Dress

2011-12-07T11:02:00.001+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to Inspiration Wednesday.
This week i wanted to share a layout that i created with the lovely new Little Black Dress range from Basic Grey. I have to confess that i was a huge fan of Basic Grey when i first started scrapping but lately their designs haven't appealed to me so much. This time i have to say though that i was more impressed! This range is very much about keeping on trend with a black and white theme like Prima Printery and Bo Bunny's new Enchanted line. To me these papers in blacks and whites and soft browns called to me to finally scrap some of my wedding photos! So - since it was our 10 year anniversary this year i fugured it was high time that i scrapped a wedding photo and this range could not have been more perfect! Naturally the range comes with a large range of matching embellishments that make putting a layout together very easy! Once again though i made use of some of the packaging that had some lovely flowers printed on it that tied in perfectly!

Here is the layout that i made

17 November 2001

Flower cluster showing use of packaging too

Products Used
Basic Grey- Little Black dress- Dapper
Basic Grey- Little Black Dress- Swanky Grand
Basic Grey- Little Black Dress- Metal Flowers
Basic Grey- Little Black Dress- Title Stickers
Ada Blooms- Jute Daisies
Ada Blooms- Megan Flower- Peach
Prima SIIC Swirl Black
Prima Trim- Twill Black
Making Memories- Reverie- Brun Antique Journal Book Mini
Prima - White Gems
Basic Grey- Capella- Doliy - Ribbon Black
Black Bazill Cardstock
Kaisercraft Transparency
Prima Flower
ManorHouse Flower
Chipboard buttons
White mini roses
Ink

Christmas Gift Card Tutorial

2011-12-06T18:40:00.006+13:00

Hi everyone,

Just a quick tutorial today on how to make another different cute little gift card. Originally, I found this idea on Pinterest but it was used to store small treats such as Hershey kisses inside but I adapted it to use it as a gift card idea suitable to for Christmas or any other occasion. Unfortunately, my pin didn't save and I can't give credit for the original idea as I can't find it!

Instructions
1. Trim a piece of patterned paper to 8.5 inches x 2.5 inches
2. Score and fold at 2 3/4 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches and 6 3/4 inches
3. At the left hand end, use a glass or a template to create the rounded edge.
4. Embellish the gift card part (I used a different KaiserCraft patterned paper and added To and From.
5. Punch two holes as shown and add twine (tie at the back with twine into a bow for added detail.)

6. Embellish the front as you wish. I used a scalloped border punch and some left over patterned paper. To create an edge for the flap of the gift card to slot into I added some firm Prima lace and adhered it in the centre so that the flap would sit nicely underneath the top edge and hold together. I then added a chipboard circle and button with twine to finish it off!

A fun kids idea

A great way of using up left over pieces of patterned paper and a fun idea for the kids is to create cute little packets of reindeer food. Reindeer food consists of oats and glitter and I just printed the little saying onto a piece of white cardstock and printed it out.

Instructions
1. Fill a small cellophane bag with the oats and glitter
2. Trim a piece of patterned paper to 4 inches by 4 3/4 inches (or to fit the width of your cellophane bag)
3. Score and fold in half at 2 inches to create the bag topper. Adhere to the cellophane bag.
4. Embellish as you wish and add the Magic Reindeer Food print out, I just punched out some circles, added buttons and twine to finish the look.

Thanks for stopping by...

//Michelle

This month's spotlight is on.....

2011-12-03T14:26:00.001+13:00

Scraphappy!!! Congratulations. Here for your enjoyment are Gwen's challenge layouts....

November Sketch Challenge

Challenge 1

Challenge 2

And so you can get to know Gwen a little better I conducted this little interview...

1. Tell us a little about yourself- your family, where you live etc

I’m an Aucklander, a busy teacher with a grown up family and grandchildren.

2. How long have you been scrapbooking

Sevenyears now – spurred on by a desire to record ordinary family moments. Not just the big celebrations but the good,the bad and the ugly even!

3. What got you started

While waiting for my eldestdaughter’s overdue baby to arrive, we visited a LSS to get materials to whileaway the time until his arrival. I was going to record each grandchild’s lifejust until each was two years old, but couldn’t stop!

4. Where do you get most of your inspiration from

The photos are myinspiration. I started off wanting toscrap my photos chronologically and wanting to be ordered in how I preservedmemories, but now it’s simply a magic moment when I pick up a photo or group ofphotos and think ‘Yes – I’ll scrap that,’ and then find the papers tosuit. However, I also love a challenge,and a sketch or a theme or the requirements to use a certain number and varietyof products can set off that inspiration as well.

5. If you had to choose just THREE scrapbooking products, what would they be
and why?

Patterned papers because Ihave always loved paper products from when I was a small girl standing at the stationerycounter at a store called MacKenzies, wondering how to spend my pocket money onpaper and pens.

Alphas – chipboard orrubons or stickers because as they create the titles that explain the feelings,the places, the people in the photos.

Embellishments – any sortat all. With two grandsons, flowersaren’t always on my layouts, but I love them just the same. So I scrap past photos of my daughters inorder to pretty up a layout!

6. Who are your favourite celebrity scrapbookers.

There are so many whosestyles differ, one from another, who inspire me. Too many to count, but Trina McClune and NicHoward are New Zealand scrapbookers whomI admire to bits.

7. Your favourite quote is.

Stop worrying aboutthe potholes in the road and celebrate the journey!

(BarbaraHoffman)

Thrifty Thursday - Winner Week 3 and $100 voucher winner

2011-12-01T11:08:00.001+13:00

Congratulations to Lyn Ryder winner of the $100 voucher in our recent Thrifty Thursday promotion!!!!

And congratulations to Annelie Maddock - winner of the 3rd $20.00 voucher!!!!

We will email you with your voucher codes.

December Sketch challenge

2011-12-01T10:47:00.001+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to the final sketch challenge for the year!

This months sketch is from Pagemaps

Lots of room for some great photos and some stamping on your pages this month!

Remember that you have until the 31st of December to enter this challenge and have the chance to win a RAK from Adrienne!

Happy scrapping

Francine

Christmas Crackers

2011-11-29T14:51:00.001+13:00

Hi Everyone,

It's not long now til the big man arrives with gifts for all. I love this time of year, thinking of what unique gifts or decorations I can come up with each year. People seem to enjoy the handmade gift more I think because it shows how much effort and thought you have really put into each gift.
Christmas crackers were on my design team list to make this month. This turned into more of a chore than I intended. I had originally intended to decorate an old tin I had and fill it with a glass Christmas decoration I had found at Crabtree & Evelyn. Unfortunately I forgot to leave 1/4 of an inch at the top so the lid would fit on again, so it didn't fit!! What to do? So I chopped off the bottom with a can opener and carried on, so my container turned into a Christmas Cracker.
The paper I have used is from last years Pink Paislee Christmas range - honestly I have so much Christmas themed paper that I have tried to be good this year.....................................................until I saw the new range from The Scrapcake, but thats a whole nother story :)

So heres the end result of my inital mistake :)

and heres a few close up shots.

I have used to Spellbinders Poinsettia and 2011 Christmas Ornaments to decorate the cracker. The bauble ornament has been stamped with embossing ink and embossed with white powder. The stamps are from Waltzing Mouse Stamps. The triple bow is made with a bow maker.
To make the ends of the cracker. I have pleated a strip of calico and used double sided tape to adhere it - hot glue did not work against the metal of the tin. For the paper I would advise to have two strips of 12x12 cut in half and then pleated using an acordian fold method. When I made mine I discovered when it was too late that I only had one sheet of the striped paper to go around each side, when I think it would've looked better with two strips joined together, so I had to make do. So if you do use x2 pieces of paper you would have more of a pleated look that what I have. The edges of the paper are punched with a Martha Stewart border punch. Considering how things went Im pleased with how the cracker turned out .................mistakes and all! :)

So have a go, would love to see what you come up with!

Happy Scrapping
Megan

Thrifty Thursday - Winner Week 2

2011-11-24T10:47:00.001+13:00

Congratulations, Alison Exelby winner of a $20.00 store voucher. We will email you the voucher code.

Do you want to be in with a chance to win this week - spend $50.00 online and you will receive one entry, $100 - 2 entries, $150 = 3 entries etc. The final draw ends on Wednesday 30 November.

At the end of the month all orders placed since 10 November, inclusive, will go in a draw for a $100.00 store voucher.

Design Team Inspiration - Pink Paislee Vintage Vogue

2011-11-23T09:54:00.004+13:00

It is time for another DT inspiration post!

This time I was lucky enough to receive some Pink Paislee Vintage Vogue goodness in my design kit. I really really really enjoyed working with these papers. One of my favourite parts of designing is getting to work with ranges that I wouldn't have normally picked out for myself.

Pink Paislee Vintage Vogue is full of yummy pinks, purples, sea foam greens and blacks which give your layouts a hint of glamour but still being fun and easy to work with. In Particular, Vintage Vogue works well for girls of all ages from wee little ones (like my Taylor) to the tweens and even BOM pages.

My first layout encompasses several of the patterned papers in several layers. I have used the reverse side of the Eau de Parfume to form the base of my layout. Used a die cut template (from some Prima Packaging) to make the layered parentheses shapes with the Corner Boutique and Dress Shop patterned papers and cut out the little shape at the bottom of this paper to use an embellishment.

Other products used: Ephemera, Prima Bling, Martha Stewart Butterfly Punch, Prima Cream Trim, Prima Butterfly, Scrapware Birdcage, Twine

My second layout compasses more Vintage Vogue Ephemera which is great value at $7.90 for 112 different pieces, both sides of the Beauty Parlour patterned papers and left over pieces from the papers I used in my first layout.

I hope you have enjoyed my inspiration for today. I have just sent both of these layouts to the store so they should be up for display shortly if you want to see them in real life.

Have a great day!
// Michelle

Step By Step with Francine- Teacher Gifts

2011-11-22T07:00:00.003+13:00

Hi ladies and welcome to Tuesday Step by Step.

This week i wanted to show you something simple that you could make for those all important teacher gifts for the end of the school year. When i was little my sisters and i would always make our teachers a container of homemade sweets (and our neighbours as well at Christmas time). We had heaps of fun making and tasting as we went along making chocolate, fudge, chocolate balls, marshmallow and coconut ice to go in our little parcels.

So i decided to zoosh up my containers a little as the step by step this week- going from an ordinary margarine container to this

I used my extras that i received after doing the Prima Roadshow class- all beautiful Alla Prima papers and prima flowers. As you can see i haven't done my baking yet but will when the time gets nearer and replace the chocolates with real homemade ones!

This was an easy project to make and quick! My daughter made this one for her teacher- he loves hardboiled lollies so i helped her make a little container for him to keep on his desk all year round! So this could be a great opportunity to get your kids creating with you to make those gifts too!

As for the step by step-

1. I used strips of patterned paper to cover my container.

2. I then cut a circle to fit the lid of my conatiner in matching papers.

3. Add ribbon trim around the lid- i used pom pom trim then add white trim to the bottom of the tub.

4. Now embellish- i added flowers , leaves and bling to my container

5. i then embellished my lid with flowers, raja centres, glimmermisted flowers, leaves and tags.

6. Add your chocolates or homemade baking and you are all done!

I hope that you will give these a try - quick and easy to make and a great way of using up some paper scraps too- and best of all the conatiners can be refilled or used for another purpose on the teachers desk all year round.

Happy Scrapping

Francine

Products used

Prima- Alla Prima paper stack 8x8

Prima - Craftable Mixed White flowers

Prima Lace- white

Tattered Angels Glimmermist- Sunflower

Prima Blooms

Prima Leaves

Raja Centres

Silver trim

Prima Swirl

Pom Pom trim

Thrifty Thursday - Winner Week 1

2011-11-16T22:23:00.001+13:00

Congratulations, Carol Sneddon winner of a $20.00 store voucher. We will email you the voucher code.

Do you want to be in with a chance to win this week - spend $50.00 online and you will receive one entry, $100 - 2 entries, $150 = 3 entries etc. The next draw ends on Wednesday 23 November.

Inspiration Wednesday with Francine- Crate Paper - Part 2

2011-11-15T21:09:00.000+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to Inspiration Wednesday.

This week i wanted to share the second layout that i completed with the beautiful Crate Paper range "Portrait". This range covered alot of colour options- from red and green to brown and to black and white and yellow also which makes it very versatile to use for whatever photos you would like to scrap.

For my second layout i wanted to show you how you can use yellow- as i know that a lot of people hate yellow and tend to avoid using the colour in their albums. I think of yellow first and foremost as a happy summery colour but i think that when you use yellow and black and white it can also look stylish and elegant. That was the effect that i was going for in this layout! I tried to keep the layout pretty simple because i wanted the photos to be the dominant force of the layout and yellow and black is a pretty striking combination which i feel doesn't need alot of embellishing!

I decided to layer my papers in a horizontal direction and used a series of punches to give the layering some extra interest. Here is a close up...

I hope that i have managed to show you 2 different looks and colour schemes that can be used with this range and that you will have a bit of play with them too!

happy Scrapping

Francine

Products Used
Crate Paper- Portrait Collection- Honeymoon
Crate paper- Portrait Collection- Vintage Lace
Pink Paislee- Nantucket Ribbon trim
Cheery Lyn Dies- Fanciful Flourish
Prima Flower
Prima Leaves
Basic Grey Black Alphas
Crate Paper Diecuts
White Bazzill Cardstock
Martha Stewart Punches

November Challenge #2 due 30th November

2011-11-15T19:14:00.004+13:00

Hi,

It is time again for the second fornightly challenge of the month!

This challenge will be a colour challenge. I have chosen a colour palette from the color room for you to create a layout using this colour combo:

You have until 30th November to upload your layout to the gallery here. To be eligible to win a RAK and be chosen to be 'In the Spotlight - you need to take part in this challenge along with two other November challenges.

Cheers
//Michelle

Easy Christmas Gift Cards

2011-11-14T21:10:00.018+13:00

Hi everyone,

Welcome to my second instalment of Christmas inspiration. Today I am going to share some easy gift cards that you can create for all your friends and family this Christmas. I did find the bases of these gift cards online but have tweaked them to suit my own style.

Again, I have used the KaiserCraft Christmas Silly Season range (see my previous blog post here if you want links to the products used) teamed up with Kraft and White card stock to create a Wine Bottle Gift Card (that sits over the neck of the wine bottle), a gift card holder and a cute little gift tag that opens up to reveal your message.

What I love about these three projects is that they don't just have to be Christmas based and you can adapt them just by using different types of papers to fit any occasion.

The first project I am going to show you how to make is the gift card holder at the bottom right of the picture above. These days the little plastic gift cards are such popular gifts to give those hard to buy for people in our lives and this gift card holder is a neat way of combining the gift card with a little message for that special love one.

Gift Card Holder Instructions

It is kind of hard to photograph the whole gift card and the card inside but I hope you get the picture from the instructions!

The second project I am going to give instructions for tonight is the wine bottle gift card holder. I just love how this card can sit on the neck of the wine bottle... no more loosing cards or trying to stick a card to an awkward bottle.

Wine Bottle Gift Card Instructions

I do have instructions for the little gift card to share and a cute little kids project but I may post them up tomorrow seeing as this post is so picture heavy already. I hope you have enjoyed reading my post tonight and that you might give these projects a try sometime in the future!

//Michelle

In the Spotlight 'Just For Fun' Sketch from Trace

2011-11-11T07:50:00.001+13:00

Trace has chosen this cool sketch from http:paperscissorsglue.blogspot.com .
for her 'Just for Fun' sketch.

If you would like to take part in this challenge upload your take to the gallery by 30 November.

Product Focus- Putting on the Glitz with Glitz Glitzers

2011-11-10T21:01:00.000+13:00

Hi Everyone. This week i wanted to share a layout that i did recently using the gorgeous Glitz Designs- Glitzers. They are truly gorgeous and would be lovely not only on layouts but cards also...They are transparent with diamond bling on the pictures or around the words and each new range of Glitz designs has their own matching embeliishments. They would be very easy to mix and match with other ranges of papers too - particualrly if you like the shabby vintage style.

Sadly my mojo has been terribly lacking over the last few weeks- i think that i am in a bit of a rut with my scrapbooking so i was delighted to find MIss Arts Papercrafting school. If you haven't checked them out yet- then you must! What a fabulous fabulous site! They run classes online- 3 at a intermediate level per month and three at a more advanced level for only $5-10 US per month. each class is taught by an internationally renowned tutor- and has a series of videos for you to follow to create with them. They are very technique based and they create their layout in front of you!

Every few months they have a free class- i recently did a Stacey Cohen class and last weekend they ran another free class by Julie Winks- wow was this class chocka full of technique - 12 videos!!! Anyhoo- since i was feeling that my layouts were abit samey i decided to give this a go- mine still looks very average next to hers but i loved trying some new techniques- masking- painting, chipboard distressing- using a Tim Holtz die that i hadn't used yet and her fabulous "nests:. Please check out Julie's blog for more of her wonderful work
Julie Winks Blog and also
Miss Arts Papercrafting School

Anyhoo this is the layout that i did based on this class

A close up of one of the Glitzers

Close up showing some of the masking and all those layers and textures

Tim Holtz dies

Using my new banner punch - love it!

I hope that you will try the Glitzers- they are perfect for that extra special touch and so versatile no matter what paper ranges that you are using..

Also have a peek at the Miss Arts site for learning lots of new techniques

Happy Scrapping

Francine

Products Used
Glitz Designs- Vintage Blue- Glitzers
Glitz Designs- Vintage Blue paper- Floral
Kraft Bazzill
Book paper
Twine
Prima Canvas
Prima Pixie Glen flowers
Prima packaging
Stampin Up punch - banners
Tim Holtz die- keys and locks
White paint
Tim Holtz distress ink
Glimmermist
Cheery Lyn flourish die
Cardboard
Alphas
Buttons
Glitz - Beautiful Dreamer- Whatnots

A KaiserCraft Christmas!

2011-11-09T11:05:00.008+13:00

Hi everyone,

My inspiration post today is all about Christmas!!

It isn't long now til that big day arrives... and I am sure every year it seems to come by faster and faster! Are you one of those people who are right into the spirit of Christmas? Are you organised? I would love to hear how you celebrate Christmas Day? I have started my Christmas shopping but I know that I will probably just keep buying things right up until the big day! I just love giving thoughtful gifts and having lots of little gifts being opened on the day... so I do go a little CRAZY around this time of the year.

Later on in the month, I am going to share with you some easy Christmas paper crafting that you can do at home (so make sure you check back to see that post). Until then, today I am going to share with you a layout I created using the KaiserCraft Christmas Silly Season range.

Each year, we have a tradition where we take a family portrait in front of the tree before we start opening presents and I love to see how much our family has grown over the years. This layout features Liam's second Christmas back in 2006. (hmmm, check out me as a Brunette too!!)

I just needed to use my gorgeous Prima leave mask sprayed on the red card stock using some Studio Calico Huey Mist in White. I think it looks a bit like snow and resembles the Christmas Wreath. I have created several layers with the patterned papers (listed below). I then wanted to wrap up the whole layout like a present so I used a piece of ribbon and then added the bow!! Lastly, the KaiserCraft Chipboard shapes make the perfect embellishments. I added some Hollie and created little hanging embellishments using some twine to finish the look. I just love love love TWINE!

Products used:
KaiserCraft Silly Season Chipboard
KaiserCraft Silly Season Paper - Candy Cane
KaiserCraft Silly Season Paper - Elf
KaiserCraft Silly Season Paper - Milk & Cookies
KaiserCraft Silly Season Paper - Jingle Bells
Prima Mask (similar one that is in stock)
Studio Calico Mist
Twine from MME

Okay, I am feeling the spirit of Christmas... leave a comment on this blog post about either how you celebrate Christmas, your family Christmas traditions and/or what you LOVE about Christmas and I will give away a RAK to one lucky blog reader. You have until the 30th November to leave a comment!!

Until next time
Take care
//Michelle xx

OTP Inspiration

2011-11-08T11:50:00.000+13:00

Hi everyone!
Im sorry Im a bit late with my post, I have been unwell with a kidney stone, then reacted to the medication I was prescribed to get rid of it, and that just sent my mojo out the door for a while - thankfully it has returned :)
My DT kit this month, I chose, and there was none more surprised than me! I certainly stepped outside of my comfort zone with this range this month. Ive used WE R Memory Keepers Family Keepsakes range, Dusty Attic chipboard and Melissa Frances Resin Frames, and Petaloo flowers, and Martha Stewart Butterfly and Leaf punches. Ive looked at it for awhile, liked the subtle colourings of the papers and for some reason it looked all patchwork quilty to me. I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it too!

Ive purchased a frame from the Warehouse and removed the glass. Ive then cut out 6 postcard edged pieces of paper using Spellbinders dies and layered them with magic mount, then decorated each 'patchwork piece'.

Thinking outside my comfort zone turned out not to be as bad as I thought :) and Ive already know what Im going to do next with this range. I love the fact that its all about family and home and with that as the basis theres no end of possibilities!

This would make a lovely gift for that special person - either for Christmas or birthday.

Happy Scrapping

Megan

November Sketch Challenge

2011-11-07T20:32:00.001+13:00

This month we have this beautiful sketch from Page Maps to challenge you, closing date for submissions is 30 November. Upload your take to our gallery, along with your take on two other November challenges to be in to win a RAK and be chosen to be 'In the Spotlight'.

This month's spotlight is on....

2011-11-04T14:51:00.000+13:00

Tracey Agnew!!! Congratulations :) Here are Trace's stunning October challenge layouts...

Challenge One layout

Challenge Two layout

Sketch Challenge Layout

We have interviewed Trace so that you can get to know her a bit better :)
Tell us a little about yourself

I'm twenty one (okay not really...). Married sixteen years to Lyall. Originally Aucklander's, (from Beachlands) who three years ago shifted south, (to North Canterbury). where we have a lifestyle block that is gradually becoming like Old MacDonalds farm :-) We have three dogs, a cat, six chickens, two piglets and soon to have three calves. If I have my way, a couple of horses would be on that list as well...

I am very close to my nephew and you'll see him feature often in my layouts.

How long have you been scrapbooking?

I've been scrapbooking way to many years to remember - a friend in New Plymouth got me into it and her son is now thirteen, so it has to be somewhere around the ten to thirteen year mark.

What got you started in scrapbooking?

Whoops jumped the mark on that question didn't I! Seeing her scrapbook of her son, I was like 'yep, this is for me'. Of course way back then in the dark ages, you couldn't get much in the way of products or magazines in NZ.

Where do you get most of your inspiration from?

I get inspired in a number of ways. Like most people I go through swings and roundabouts in terms of my creativity. When the mojo is running full mode, I can dream about layouts and have been known to get out of bed and write notes so I don't forget in the morning...When I need to get some outside inspiration then I check out websites, blogs and magazines. I'm lucky that some of my best friends have evolved through our love of scrapbooking and I gain much inspiration and laughter from them as well.

If you had to choose just THREE products, what would they be an why?

Hmm just three products - patterned paper, a die cut machine, and dies (because then I'd have alphas, and flowers and any other embellies I wanted LOL)

Who are you favourite celebrity scrapbookers?

Honestly, too hard to pick - there are so many talented artists out there...

Your favourite quote is......

My favourite quote is...hearing my friend Vicki when cropping say "just do it" LOL. You know when you are considering the best placement for something and can't quite decide, then just do it/just stick it down!

I also like "having somewhere to go is a home, having someone to love is a family, having both is a blessing."

I hope you have enjoyed learning about Trace. Enter three challenges this month and you could be November's In the Spotlight winner.

Have a great weekend!!

2011-11-04T07:56:00.000+13:00

I am thrilled to announce that we are partnering with the Challenge Me Happy blog run by Annelie Maddock as of 1 November!!!

Scrappin' Patch are sponsoring the Challenge Me Happy designers, both local and international, with material to create for challenges on the Challenge Me Happy blog. Each reveal you will see products from our shop showcased by two of the Challenge Me Happy designers!

Thank you Annelie, and the Challenge Me Happy DT, we are very excited about the journey ahead.

Click on the link on the sidebar to be taken to the Challenge Me Happy blog and be sure to join in each month with their fabulous challenges. Annelie has secured lots of lovely prizes as well.....but you gotta enter to be in to win!!!!

Inspiration Wednesday with Francine- Crate Paper

2011-11-02T11:26:00.000+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to Inspiration Wednesday. This week Adrienne gave me some of the Crate Paper- Portrait collection to create with. This range comes in a variety of colours from black and grey to yellow and soft green and reds- so it covers almost the whole colour spectrum! I designed 2 layouts with my kit - one that i will share today and one next week.

This first layout i decided to step out of my comfort zone a little and focus on the reds and greens- not colours that i traditionally would use but i was happy with the end result! I layered lots of the paper and by cutting out various squares and using the back sides of the papers too- you can get a multi' layered effect from just a couple of pieces of paper. I handcut some of the flowers from the flowery paper to use on my layout too and only added a few smaller flowers to bulk it up a little.

By adding some punched edges and some punched butterflies ( how do i love thee Martha Stewart) and a few other embellishments it added to the texture and visuals of the layout. I hope that you will give this range a try - it would be great for both boy and girl layouts- vintage layouts too- something for everyone!

I'll be back with yellow- a colour that most people avoid and black next week- to show you how you can create something simple and striking with these colours and this range.

Happy Scrapping

Francine

Products Used

Crate Paper- Portrait Collection- Bouquet

Crate Paper- Portrait Collection- Bridesmaids

Portrait Collection- Something Blue

Glitz Designs- Peek a Boo Transparencies

Jenni Bowlin - Mini Cards- Vintage

                                              Martha Stewart Punch- Large Monarch Butterfly
                                         Jillibean Soup- Chipboard Alphabeans- Newsprint
                                                   Elements Pearl Brads - Metallic
                                                        Pink Paislee Brown Paper
                                              Martha Stewart Deep edge heart punch
                                                           Prima Red Flowers
                                                   Kaisercraft Chipboard Hinge
                                                         Crate paper Diecuts
                                                                     Ticket

Ist Fortnightly Challenge for November

2011-11-01T20:43:00.006+13:00

Hi everyone,

Welcome to the first fortnightly challenge for November.

This month I would like you to create a 'multi photo' layout but it must be about a celebration!! This challenge will be the perfect opportunity for you to scrap those occasions which include: birthdays, graduations, christenings, weddings, engagements or anything that you have celebrated.

You have until 14th November to upload your take on this to the gallery. To be eligible to win the RAK from Adrienne you need to enter at least 3 of the challenges in November.

Here is my example layout:

Looking forward to seeing all the layouts in the gallery!!

Michelle

Inspiration Wednesday - Melissa Frances - Part 2

2011-10-26T08:00:00.002+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to Inspiration Wednesday. I have another layout to share using the beautiful soft colours of the 5th Avenue line by Melissa Frances. This range is beautifully soft and would be great for baby photos as it has both pink , blue and soft green elements- as well as both girl and boy layouts. This range has stunning embellishments that make creating not only fun but easy as well.

This layout shows my third daughter in a common activity at the moment - busy scribbling or drawing in her notebooks- she is almost ready for school and it is neat to see her start to take an interest in writing!

Here is my layout

I am in love with these gorgeous Spellbinder dies that help you to create stunning flowers from your left over papers! The Websters trim is nice and pink and sparkly and the mistables are easy to glimmermist in the right shade for your layout !

I hope that you will have a play with some of these papers and products!

Happy Scrapping

Francine

Products Used

Melissa Frances- Chipboard embellishments

Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue- Rhinestones

Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue- Sticker Book

Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue paper- Ebony

Melissa Frances paper- Antonia

Melissa Frances paper- Essie

Melissa Frances paper- Geraldine

Melissa Frances paper- Pearl

Websters- Feather Fancy Trim - Pink

Prima- Londonerry Resist Canvas Shapes

Martha Stewart Punch- Large Monarch Butterfly

Spellbinders Die

Doily

Silver thread

Fancy Pants - To The Moon

2011-10-24T18:50:00.008+13:00

Hi everyone,

It is a long weekend here in New Zealand and after celebrating the nail biting win over the French last night in the Rugby World Cup final. I know I can speak for myself when I say that I have appreciated the extra day of weekend!!

Now it is time for me to reveal my second lot of design team inspiration for the month from the Fancy Pants - To The Moon range. This is an uber fun range for all those little (and maybe not so little boys in your life). Full of bright bold colours, fun patterns and lots of cool matching embellishments.

The first layout I created using the Robots patterned paper as the background of my layout and then added lots of embellishments by cutting out the banner and stars, "All Boy" and the little Robot from the Strips patterned papers. Which is a great way of creating lots of cool embellishments but doesn't break the bank. I then finished off the layout with some circles from the Aliens patterned paper and adding some of the Rubons.

My second layout from this range, I didn't specifically have photos about robots, martians or even space ships but instead I used the sentiments in the Rubons to match the papers in with the photo of Liam.

I have mixed up the patterned papers in this layout to include a small amount of MME Lime Twist which I think works really well with the colours in this range. I created the title by cutting out the words on the rubons individually to make them flow better around my circle and of course adding the spaceship to the layout as well. I didn't need to do much to the background of this paper as it is fun all on its own but I did cut a piece out behind my photo and used this for piece for some of the rubons and pop dotted them up to give the layout more definition. I have also used the Tim Holtz Rosette Die to and then mounted the planet rubon in the middle of it as it's centre.

That is all from me for now. Thanks for visiting and I hope you had a great weekend!!

//Michelle

Alla Prima Inspiration Take 2

2011-10-19T09:52:00.005+13:00

Hi everyone,

I am so excited to share with you all my second layout using the Alla Prima collection. The more I work with this collection the more I love it. Again, I have used a beachy photo of Liam on our 'walk' down to Cathedral Cove last summer, I love how the greens and the blues of the hills and the ocean tone in with the hues of the patterned papers.

Here is my layout:

I have used this Prima Brick Fence Mask to create a simple yet really effective background to form the basis of my layout. Next I fussy cut out the leaves and vines from the reverse side of the Low Key patterned paper to frame the left hand side of my photo. Lastly, I added a flower cluster and misted the Londonerry - Resist Canvas Shapes with Studio Calico Mister Huey's Mist.

I hope you have enjoyed my second layout that I have created with the Alla Prima collection. I know it is one of my favourites and Prima has managed to create another amazing and easy to use range with this collection.

Have a great day!
// Michelle

Step by Step with Melissa Frances

2011-10-18T16:04:00.000+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to Tuesday Step by Step. I thought that i would try something different today and something that i have seen quite alot on the internet recently. Today i want to share a step by step layout that shows you how i pull everything together. This is the finished layout that is the end product!

I was delighted when Adrienne gave me the new Melissa Frances to have a play with this month as it is very much my style and so beautiful! i love the soft pastel colours and all the matching embellishments- it makes building a layout very easy!

So i guess the first thing that i think of is story that i want to tell and what photo/s can i use to tell this story. I wanted to do a layout about my sweet four year old who always picks me flowers- everytime she sees one she picks one for me- and on this day i said to Lucy- " thank you for all the beautiful flowers that you give me" and she said- "its because i love you mum". Awww so sweet. So i knew that i wanted to have this story as the feature of my page- usually i have hidden journalling on my pages but this time i wanted to have the story out there in front. Of course i didn't have an actual photo of her giving me flowers so i used one of my portrait photos that i try to take every month of each girl. Then i can add the journalling that i want that will go with my photo.

So once i have decided on my story and photos i then collect all my products together and lay them out on my desk. For me a page isn't me if i don't have at least 3 papers as i like to use lots of layering so once i have my 3 papers i then work on my embellishments. I bascially collect all the matching embellies that i have that go with the papers- this is easy as i tend to always buy some of the matching embellies that go with a range of papers that i like- but dig through your stash- look for elements that can be cut out of papers and packaging too- the lady in the cluster on the left was cut out of the packaging from the pearls i used. If you don't have matching embellishments- use white and glimmermist or colour them to match up!

You will notice that not everything in the picture got used- once i have my base sorted then i have a play around and see what looks good.

So the next step is arranging a good base for me to build the layout and embellishments on. So i cut my papers and arranged them like so. A couple of layers behind my photo and a small doily to break up the squareness of my layering is next before i add a punched layer going across the page. Because the papers are quite light i tend to always ink all the paper edges so that they stand out from each other too.

Because of the oval shape of the pattern on the paper - i wanted to emphasise that so i adhered some ribbon around the oval shape to give it some dimension and interest as well. A few more layers of stickers across the punched horizontal piece and i am happy that i have a good base to now have a play with some embellishments.

The embellishing stage takes by far the longest - and a fair bit of moving things around and adding and taking different things off till i am happy with how things sit. Quite often i will go away and then come back after 5 minutes and it can give you a different perspective and you can move things to a better place! I usually have 2 main embellishment clusters - one larger than the other with a mixture of sizes and shapes and dimensions for interest. You just have to play till you are happy!

I kept this cluster quite simple- with flowers. leaves, butterfly and the handcut lady - i had a tag and canvas pieces and chipboard pieces too that eventually got eliminated! They just didn't look right as they were too square or rectangular next to the rounder flowers. I added a square resin piece to the smaller cluster which looked better to me.

So here was the finished product again...with the title added to emphasise the story that i was telling in my journalling...

I hope this helps you see some of my creative processes and how i put a layout together... and helps you to maybe try a few new ways to create too....

Happy Scrapping

Francine

Products Used

Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue- Chipboard pieces
Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue - Rhinestones
Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue- Sticker Book
Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue paper- Geraldine
Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue paper- Hattie
Melissa Frances- 5th Avenue Paper- Minerva
Melissa Frances- Resin Frame- Newstand
Prima Ribbon
Prima Flowers
Martha Stewart Punch- Deep EdgeHearts
Martha Stewart Butterfly punch
Spellbinders Butterfly die
Petaloo Flower
Prima alphas

Second challenge for October

2011-10-14T23:16:00.001+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to the second challenge for October. All entries are due by the 31st of October and don't forget that you are in the draw to win some great prizes from Adrienne. You also get a chance to be in the spotlight and have your layouts featured on the blog and in the newsletter as well assetting a sketch challenge for others to complete.

This challenge is a really easy one- i would like you to try a technique that you haven't ever tried before on your page- on my page i used a piece of discarded paper from the back of a felt flourish. I literally grabbed it out of the rubbish bin and used it as a mask on my page- i couldn't find my glimmermist that i wanted so i inked it instead!

I would love to see what you all try on your pages- if you are stuck as to what technique you could try - have a look at the past technique Tuesdays- on the blog page go on the search box and type in Technique Tuesdays and a list should come up from previous posts to give you some ideas. Maybe you already have something in mind that you have always wanted to try- now is the time!!

Here is my layout using the masking technique

I am looking forward to seeing what you come up with - make sure you mention what technique you have tried- so that others can see and learn from you too!

Happy Scrapping

Francine

Products Used

Prima - Printery-Monogram

Printery- Page Four

Printery- Signature

Prima - Raja Centres - Brown

Prima- Shabby Chic Resin - Birdhouses

Tim Holtz- film strip

Kaisercraft- Black Flourish

Petaloo and Kaisercraft Flowers

Imaginarium Chipboard title

(JUst wanted to add that this was based on a sketch for Little Shop of Sketches . )

OTP Inspiration

2011-10-13T11:35:00.001+13:00

Hi Everyone!
Ive had some fun creating with Dusty Attic 6x6 frames with more of Websters Pages Western Romance. The one thing I love about Websters Pages is with a little bit of fussy cutting you get embellishments from your paper with out the cost of having to buy some to match.
Ive honestly never been a fan of their reverse sides though - I used to look at them and think how do you go from something so beautiful to this?, and I never saw the benefit of them and could never get them to 'fit' with my scrapping. This time I decided to take down my mind block and see what I could do with them.
This is the first of my frames - they come in packs of two, one has a window type of effect and the other uses the negative elements of the 'window'. You'll see what I mean.
This first frame uses the reverse of "Line Dance" - a lovely bright yellow, with the front of the paper as well. I've also used some Prima flowers from my stash, some old Basic Grey rubons and a fabric ticket that I have cut down to a smaller size. This frame uses the negative of the 'window'.

The second frame is the 'window' frame. Ive used two different papers from the same range, and fussy cut some of the flowers and layered them with foam dots for dimension. I've also used another fabric ticket and inked the edges with Pinecone Ink. The door lock and key is Melissa Frances. Tucked in behind my Prima cluster is a canvas resist silhouette that you could ink or spray with glimmermist but Ive chosen to keep it in its original form. Ive also added a Websters push pin and tied my double using ribbon binding. Both frames also come with their own little stands too!

I hope this has given you some ideas in how to utilise some of these awesome products!

Happy scrapping!!

Megan

Alla Prima Inspiration

2011-10-12T19:33:00.004+13:00

Hi everyone,

In my design kit this month I was lucky to receive some gorgeous Prima papers and embellishments from the Alla range. The Alla Prima collection includes a lovely mix of teals, mustard yellows soft browns, with a hint of olive tones which make it so versatile for both masculine and femine layouts. It would also be perfect to scrap those summer beachy photos as the colours mirror the sand and the sea.

I have one layout to share with you right now of my daughter Taylor on her first camping trip at Hahei beach last summer. I have actually used the Prima October BAP sketch to form the basis of my layout as well as the Prima Alla Papers, I have also included Jute Daisies, extra flowers, Prima bling, some Prima packaging, utilised various border punches and the English Rose Cherry Lynn die.

Products used:
All Prima Collection - Composition
Alla Prima Collection - Ferrulle
Alla Prima Collection - Motif
Prima Londonerry Canvas Resist Shapes
Jute Daisies
Martha Stewart Doily Punch
Martha Stewart Butterfly Punch Trio
Prima Bling
Prima Flowers Reflections

This is another fabulous collection by Prima which I am sure is selling fast in the shop. I really enjoyed creating with this collection and I will have another layout to show you in the next couple of weeks so stay tuned!!

Thanks
//Michelle

Tech Tuesday - Paper Piecing 101

2011-10-11T13:34:00.001+13:00

Hi everyone, Sarah here with the basics on paper piecing. Some of you have been asking about this fun and simple technique...so here's the low down. I'm using this adorable Snag 'em stamp.

Begin by stamping your image onto paper or your project and onto the paper you want to piece with. I'm going to cut this out, so I'm using a scrap piece of card. This is a great technique for using scraps of paper!

Colour the parts of your image that won't be pieced. It's best to colour first, any mistakes will then be covered up.

Cut around the pieced shape - here's the important part - I like to cut ON the lines. You'll get the best result this way. For a shape with lots of parts like the stripes on this stocking, just keep it all together in once piece, we'll add the second pattern over top.

I love this Tombow adhesive for piecing. Add a little all over the are to be pieced, you don't need much.

Lay down the piecing, being sure to line it up correctly. Because you cut on the lines, this is really easy.

I decided to add a second colour for some of the stripes. Cut out the basic shape again, ommiting the fiddly part at the top which you won't use anyway.

Cut out the pieces you will need. Adhere with Tombow directly over the original piecing.

You're done! I'll be using this little guy on a project I'll share soon. See you next month with some more advanced piecing options!

In the Spotlight 'Just for Fun' Sketch Challenge from Andrea

2011-10-10T07:48:00.000+13:00

Andrea has created this gorgeous sketch as well as a lovely example using the new Kaisercraft Bonjour range. Join in this fun sketch by uploading your take to the gallery by 31 October

This month's Spotlight is on ...

2011-10-09T12:27:00.003+13:00

... Andrea Davey!

I would like to share Andrea's winning layouts. Here's her layout for September's sketch challenge:

And here are her layouts for September's fortnightly challenges:

And so you can all get to know Andrea better, I conducted a little interview:

1. Tell us a little about yourself - your family, where you live, etc.
I live in Lincoln with my husband Tony who I have been married to for coming up to 15 years in November, with our two children Lucas (9) and Brie-anne (8). My kids like most people are my inspiration and many pages are done on what we have been doing in our life and these memories can be shared and passed on to the next generation. We moved down from Auckland 5 years ago and even with all the earthquakes and aftershocks we wouldn’t move back as we like the lifestyle in Lincoln (10 minutes from Christchurch) as it is semi rural. This seems to be changing a bit now though with so many people moving out this way. We own our own business so my scrapbooking time is limited to a couple of hours on a Sunday afternoon. The kids know that if they want anything it has to be asked for before lunch time Sunday otherwise it’s not going to happen as that’s my time.

2. How long have you been scrapbooking?
8 years.

3. What got you into scrapbooking?
I started scrapbooking when Lucas was 1, as I was taking so many photos and I didn’t know what to do with them. That’s when I did a basic class at Spotlight and then other classes at the Mt Eden scrapbooking store to get ideas and skills.

4. Where do you get most of your inspiration from?
Most of my ideas come from the photo or paper and also by the challenges that are set by the design team. When I don’t have much time having some guidelines makes it easier for me to come up with an idea so a sketch to follow is great.

5. If you had to choose just THREE scrapbooking products, what would they be and why?
Basic cardstock, I seem to use this quite often as a starting block and I have lots of different colours. I think this is because I find it hard cutting up pretty paper.
Double sided tape as it can be used to stick lots of different things down.
Mesh ribbon as it adds interest to a layout yet doesn’t take over the page.

6. Who are your favourite celebrity scrapbookers?
I don’t really have time to surf the internet to get ideas but I have gained heaps of ideas from looking at Heidi’s pages and sitting next to her at the retreat I got inspired by her suggestions – yes Heidi I now use a lot more ink (a wee hint from her).

7. Your favourite quote is ....
"Live, Love and Laugh - this is how life should be."

I hope you have all enjoyed seeing Andrea's work and getting to know her better. Stay tuned, because in a couple of weeks we will be posting a special "just for fun" weekend sketch challenge based on a sketch chosen by Andrea (as well as her interpretation of it).

Congratulations Andrea, on being this month's winner. I hope you've enjoyed being "In The Spotlight" (and it's not over yet)!

Hannah

Product Focus: Chalkboard Glimmermist and more!

2011-10-07T09:00:00.001+13:00

Hi everyone, Sarah here with a product focus. Today we'll be talking about the awesome Chalkboard Glimmermist, Distress Stains from Ranger and Prima Mistables.

I created this tag with all three products....

For a more in depth look and discusion about these fun supplies, here's a video (where I call the Londonerry Prima range Londonberry! oops!):

View full size here at You Tube

I hope you've enjoyed a peek at these wonderful products!

Inspiration Wednesday- Scrapping your old Christmas Photos

2011-10-05T10:17:00.001+13:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to Inspiration Wednesday!

This week Adrienne gave me some of the lovely Making Memories - Noel range to play with. These papers are in the traditional colours of muted reds and greens and come with some lovely embellishments to make your layout come together very easily!

I chose to scrap the highlight of my eldest daughters Christmas last year- finally getting her Ripstick! ( an areodynamic skateboard that you have to wiggle to move)- it was at the very top of her list to Santa and so she was very excited to open up that parcel and see her ripstick!

Here is my layout

As you can see i used lots of star embellishements that i cut from one of the patterned papers and also used some of the gorgeous brads that compliment this range. I cut up a Prima gold Xmas vine and placed it around my photos to make a frame.

Here are some close ups of my embellishments

I hope that you will give this range a go - its great for your traditional photos and for Black and white and because the colours are so neutral the range would be great for some boy pages too!

Happy Scrapping

Francine

Products Used

Making Memories - Noel- Brad Combo

My Minds Eye- Noel paper - Collage

Making Memories - Noel paper - Poinsettia Ledger

Making Memories - Noel - Postage Stripe paper

Prima Gold Christmas Vine

Prima Flowers- red

String

Alphas

Bracket

Making Memories range- paper and titles

OTP Challenge

2011-10-03T10:45:00.002+13:00

Hi Everyone!
I have a card making challenge for you today. Recently in my DT kit I received some gorgeous Websters Pages product - Western Romance papers, with fabric tickets, ribbon and flowers. As much as I love their papers I have never bought the fabric embellishments myself, I looked at them and not a skerit of creativity came forth and all that had to change when I saw my kit this month :)

So my challenge to you is to create a card that uses a product you would normally shy away from, and to make an easel card instead of a standard shape card. Heres how to make the easel card:

Take one piece of cardstock 12 x 12" and cut it in half. Then take one of those halves and and cut it in half again. So you should end up with one piece 6x12" and two pieces 6x6"

Take your 6 x12" piece and fold it in half to create a 6x6" card. Now fold the front of the card in half towards the top. It should look like this:

Decorate the inside of the card as desired. You will need to include ribbon in the base of your card, it acts like a door stopper for the top piece to catch on. You can add this later once you have a better idea of where you want it to sit. To make your 'catch' you could use flowers or ribbon or even a double layer of cardstock.

Now take one of your 6x6" pieces of cardstock. This will be the front of your card, decorate as desired.
Adhere double sided tape to the top fold of your card and apply the decorated piece of cardstock to it.
Heres mine:

I have used Spellbinders Labels 22 and Picot Edge circles. One piece of the fabric ribbon has little letters on it so I have cut out three of them and raised them with foam to create a small cluster on my base. I have also cut out the surround of the ticket and mounted it on cardstock. All products used are from Websters Western Romance with the exception of the seam binding ribbon, Prima rosebud and misc heart pins.

So, I have to say, the fabic products were actually easy to use :) and just like paper you can cut them up to suit your needs!
Happy Scrapping!!

October Sketch Challenge

2011-10-02T08:33:00.000+13:00

As Michelle still has no, or very limited, internet access due to her recent house move I am posting the October sketch challenge on her behalf :) And I have for you a multi photo double page layout!!!! I love doing these myself and hope you enjoy this just as much as I have.

You have until 31 October to upload your take on this to our gallery. To be eligible to win the RAK from Adrienne you need to enter at least 3 of the challenges of the monthly challenge as well as getting the chance to be in the spotlight. You will be interviewed and your interview and examples of your creations will be posted on the forum so that we can all get to know you and your fabulous work.

Happy Scrapping!!!
Adrienne

October Challenge- Scraplift your Favourite

2011-10-01T13:53:00.002+13:00

Hi Ladies and Welcome to the first challenge for October! This month i thought that we would change it up a little from the usual challenges- there will be no theme for the month of October- we listened to your feedback and decided to drop the themes for the rest of the year- so you can scrap whatever and whoever that you choose!! So we are hoping to see alot more of you competing and sharing your layouts with us in the gallery!

For this first challenge i would like you to scraplift one of your favourite designers but also putting your own twist on their layout - it shouldn't be an exact scraplift down to the last detail. Please tell us who you are scraplifting and why you like their style so much. If you can please leave a link to their layout or blog page so that we can see what you are scraplifting! It's very important to honour the designer that you are scraplifting- they have put alot of time and effort and love into their work so that we can all be inspired by them!

My favourite designer at the moment is Camilla Eckman from Sweden. She currently designs for Zva Creative, Swirlydoos Scrapbook kits and Get Picky-and of course Glitz Designs amongst others too. She has a beautiful elegant style with lots of beautiful layering, punching, flowers and bling!! Please check out her blog at http://camillaslillasida.blogspot.com/ to see the layout that i have scraplifted.

Here is my version- also using the same papers as i just love this Glitz range SOOOO much- as you can see i have scraplifted the base of the layout but changed the photo- she had one - i added 2 photos and i have embellished mine differently to hers but have been heavily inspired by her beautiful style!

Products Used
Glitz Designs- Laced with Grace-Floral
Laced with Grace- Butterflies
Prima Flowers
Kaisercraft Hunt and Gather- Tags
Cheery Lyn Leaf Flourish Die
Lace
Trim
Green Tara rose buds
Green Bazill
Kaisercraft Rubons

OTP Inspiration

2011-09-30T15:17:00.001+13:00

Hi Everyone!
Its already October and not long now til Christmas - I know how could I even mention it?! Its too early to start thinking presents!!! But its not if you're like me and make a lot of your gifts and cards. So I thought I'd show you what you can do with a simple photoframe. You can pick them anywhere and now that they come window boxed as well as just flat framed it gives oodles more possibilities.

The first frame is a really simple wooden one I picked up at The Warehouse, made for a colleague who has just lost his mum to cancer. I just added a Prima vine, some single little rosebuds and a wee tag - simple but really effective and displays beautifully on a metal display stand.

The second frame I also purchased from TWH and was part of a wedding present - the vine this time was chosen because the colours matched their bridesmaids dresses perfectly, I then just added some rubons and a chipboard heart that was painted and whilst still wet I applied glitter.

The third frame actually made the recipient cry! Not my intention but she had just lost who precious wee cat so this was a special gift. The white matt of the frame I stamped using a script stamp and pinecone ink and matted the photo onto some Karen Foster paper. The 'pompom' vine is from my stash - a petaloo product - and matched the bush Buddy was lying in, with some ribbon, extra few flowers and his initial to personalise the frame.

Now hopefully this has given you some inexpensive ideas for gifts this year!
Happy Scrapping!
Megan

Bella Blvd - Making the Team....

2011-09-30T15:02:00.002+13:00

Get out those sport photos and created some stunning pages using the new Bella Blvd Making the Team range...papers, chipboard, and stickers!!!

And here are a few designs from the Bella Blvd blog

First a card designed by Allyson on the Bella Blvd blog using Making the Team.

This gorgeous layout by Lyn Ghahary!!!

And some lovely creations using the very cute Finally Fall range. This layout was designed by Jamie Harper

Download instructions for this gorgeous layout using the new Making the Team range. Be sure to check out the Bella blog - it is brimming over with amazing work.

Create a layout using at least one Bella Blvd product and be in the draw to win a $15.00 store voucher. Upload your take to our gallery by 31 October.

Step by Step- Making flowers for your layout

2011-09-20T11:50:00.003+12:00

Hi Everyone and welcome to Technique Tuesday.

This week i wanted to show you an easy way to make some pretty flowers for your page- easy and cost effective too! I bought my little bags from the Warehouse but you can get the bags in different colours from the $2 shop as well and in different sizes.
First of all you will need some little bags that look like this-

Cut it in two- underneath the sewn line- as shown
Then using the drawstrings - pull it tight so that it looks like this

Then with the second part of your bag cut out 2 circles like this- it can be quite rough - i didn;t measure-

Then i tucked these 2 circles into the top - through the hole to make the flower fuller. i used a small circle of chipboard or cardstock underneath to glue it all together.

Then i added a flower in the centre of my large flower and a brad for the smaller one.

and the smaller one

This is the layout that i used these flowers on - using Teresa Collins papers

I hope that you will give these flowers a try - they are great for people like mewho are sewing challenged!

Products used

Teresa Collins papers
Imaginarium Chipboard - coming soon!!
Kaisercraft Flowers
Collections Pins
Teresa Collins Brads
Black and White Bazzill
Kaisercraft Rhinestones
Kaisercraft transparency

OTP Inspiration with MME and Teresa Collins

2011-09-16T09:54:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone - it's time for some inspiration using the MME Lush 2 range and Freestyle by Teresa Collins. These two ranges work so well together! The set I created is giving me a bit of a circus vibe which is SO hot right now!

This gift set would be perfect for a teen girl, or any girly girl really!

I started by creating a gift box. This is the perfect size for some hand cream and lipgloss or any number of small items.

If you'd like to make this box, you can find the instructions here. I decorated the box with this awesome pom pom trim and the co-ordinating ribbon as well as some Green Tara flowers. I love that flocked paper!

For me, homemade packaging is ALL about the details. Going the extra step really makes your packaging stand out. So with this box, I like to also line the inside...

This is a good way to use up those cut scraps of paper and also helps make the box even more sturdy. I have made the tag on this box removable so the box can be used for storage after the gift is taken out.

I used the same papers to create a large 5"x5" card. I layered the sentiment cut from this paper onto a flocked journalling panel. The adorable speech bubble from 2crafty (looks like they are out of stock - ask Adrienne if you need them!) was covered in the grid paper and I used a thicker number 2 to make it a little text speak funky and to tie in with the sentiment on the box tag. The ribbon is again from the Lush set.

I finished off the gift set with a little pillow box. I used a sizzix die but you can find templates for these all over the internet. This one would be perfect for another small gift or a gift card.

Have a wonderful weekend, I hope you get time to be creative!
Sarah

Fortnightly Challenge #2 - Multiphoto

2011-09-15T09:05:00.004+12:00

Hi girls,

Time to announce our second fortnightly challenge for September. This one is a multiphoto challenge, and I want you to use at least 3 photos on your layout.

Here's my example:

Products used:
Cosmo Cricket Social Club "Blue Eyes"
Cosmo Cricket Social Club "Martini"
Cosmo Cricket Social Club "Cocktail"
Cosmo Cricket Social Club Borders
Cosmo Cricket Social Club Elements
grey Bazzill
Heidi Swapp clear stamp "Smile"
Stazon ink
American Crafts Thickers
Carolee's Creations Tiny Etched Natural alphabet stickers
Three Bugs in a Rug paper (dots)

You have until midnight, Friday 30th September to upload your creation to the gallery. Remember, if you enter 3 out of 4 challenges this month, you could be in to win!

Happy Scrapping!

MME Lost & Found Two Inspiration

2011-09-14T09:09:00.003+12:00

Hi girls,

I was sent a box of utter gorgeousness that is My Mind's Eye Lost & Found Two! I couldn't wait to start creating as soon as I opened it.

Here are two layouts I created using a couple of different lines from this range - Breeze and Rosy.

CROSSING THE LINE

Products used:
MME Lost & Found Two - Breeze "Everywhere"
MME Lost & Found Two - Breeze "Boyish"
MME Lost & Found Two - Breeze "Precious" decorative brads
MME Lost & Found Two - Rosy "Love" layered chipboard stickers
MME Lost & Found Two - Rosy "Love" buttons
October Afternoon Mini Market alphabet stickers
Basic Grey Hopscotch element stickers
Prima flowers & leaves

EVERYTHING ABOUT YOU

Products used:
MME Lost & Found Two - Rosy "Remember"
MME Lost & Found Two - Rosy "Everything"
MME Lost & Found Two - Rosy "Everything" title
MME Lost & Found Two - Rosy "Love" layered chipboard stickers
MME Lost & Found Two - Rosy "Love" buttons
black Bazzill
Prima flowers
white chipboard tag
black chipboard heart
transparency

Thanks for looking!

Hannah

What a Weekend- Scrappin Patch retreat 2011

2011-09-13T14:13:00.002+12:00

I just thought that
I would write a quick round up of the fabulous Scrappin Patch Spring Retreat for 2011 held this past weekend. A few of you have asked to see what we created and wanted to know how it went! Well - in one word it was F_A_B_U_L_O_U_S!! Adrienne had worked her socks off to make the weekend the huge success that it was - so a big thank you for all your hard work Adrienne- it was a truly amazing weekend filled with laughter and fun and lots of learning!

The retreat was held at Glentui- in North Canterbury - so remote and in the bush that we had no cellphone coverage and had wood pigeons in the trees outside - so very tranquill and relaxing! The lodge was lovely and hosts and food was absolutely wonderful- i must have put on a few kilos I think after all those sweet treeats we had.

We had 41 lovely ladies attend from the length and breadth of the the country- one lady from Auckland and many from down south with Robbi in tow! It was wonderful that both Heidi and Robbi could attend the retreat as well- it was great to catch up with both of them!

On Friday night we had our first class with the amazingly talented and so lovely Steph Devlin! She was a real sweetheart- so down to earth and natural and friendly- she was a fabulous teacher and made the effort to talk to everyone and really get to know us. All of the work that she had created for us was absolutely STUNNING! As you will see!! The first class on Friday night was an Off the Page project using some of the new Websters ranges and Imaginarium Chipboard. This was so beautiful and popular that it had sold out by 7.30am the next morning! Adrienne plans to order more of this lovely chipboard in- it is very fine and intricate compared to the Dusty Attic ranges and comes in alot of different designs. For our OTP project we used a frame and the Eiffel Tower pieces on a canvas- see picture above!

Steph was back again on Saturday morning to teach us the special layout class that she had designed for us using unreleased BONJOUR papers from Kaisercraft. Let me tell you that they are totally gorgeous and bound to be best sellers when they are released in October! Because we were lucky to receive these ahead of their release date we are unable to show you a picture as yet of the layout that we did - but believe me it was pink and gorgeous- i even bought a frame to frame mine !

Steph had also designed a Pink Paislee Butterfly Garden kit for us- that we could complete in our own time. Each kit had easy to follow instructions and heaps of techniques to try and were such fun to put together. Here is the layout that i did with this kit!

We were so incredibly lucky to have someone of Steph's calibre to come over and teach us at the retreat. So a huge thank you to Steph and to Adrienne for giving us the opprtunity to learn from a true master! As if that wasn't awesome enough - Steph had also designed ANOTHER kit using the newly released Scrapcake papers and Mansion House Creations flowers that we could purchase and complete at the retreat also. I think almost all the ladies did take up this opportunity but Adrienne still has a few of these left so if you are keen please email Adrienne directly- be in quick as they will go fast- They are $45 each! Here is the layout

So all in all it was a truly wonderful weekend - it was great to catch up with old friends and meet lots of new ones ! Adrienne is already planning the next one!

Francine

Product Focus -Imaginisce Roly Rosies

2011-09-09T08:26:00.001+12:00

,Hi everyone!
Imaginisce have produced this funky range of flowers for you to create, or Rosies as they call them. Included in the pack are 24 different rosies, each in a different design, either black and white, brown and cream or brown and white. The designs are script, floral, polka dot and damask, and they are in three sizes small, medium and large.

They also come in two different edges with small and a large version of both - so either scalloped edge or smooth. If you wanted to a have different edge rather than the smooth edge you would have enough room to use fancy edged scissors.

The instructions are really clear and easy to follow. All you have to do is separate the rosie from the perforated edge, like this

They say to use a paper quilling tool to start the paper rolling, I have one and used it to start my first rosie but I also found that it was just as easy to use my trusty chopstick and mould the paper round it. Once you have rolled the whole thing up all you have to do is fiddle around with your petals to arrange your flower how you want it to look. (The tighter you roll your flower the smaller the flower is.)

This shows my three sizes of rosies. The middle one is actually the large size but Ive rolled it tightly to get a smaller bud. The third one is the medium size which I have loosely rolled and then curled the edges out with my trusty chopstick!, and added a brad to the centre.
At a cost of $11.90 for 24 flowers - thats huge value for money!

Happy Scrapping!
Megan

In The Spotlight - "Just For Fun" Sketch Challenge from Vicky

2011-09-08T19:43:00.007+12:00

Hi girls,

Vicky Mullen (aka gypsykate), this month's "In The Spotlight" winner, has designed a great sketch for this "Just For Fun" challenge. She's also done an example layout to inspire you all.

She designed this awesome sketch:

And here is her example:

This would be a great challenge to do at the Scrappin' Patch retreat this weekend, or at home if you aren't going to the retreat.

If you want to take part in this challenge, upload your layout to the gallery here: http://scrappinpatch.co.nz/coppermine/thumbnails.php?album=452

Happy Scrapping!

Hannah

Christmas Inspiration

2011-09-06T22:33:00.002+12:00

Hi Ladies and welcome to Inspiration Wednesday. This week i would like to share with you some Christmas layouts that i created with some Websters pages. If you are anything like me then you take heaps of photos at Christmas time- there is always so many things to record- and never get around to scrapping all of them. I still have quite a stack to get through from last year so was secretly pleased when Adrienne sent me the Christmas inspiration kit! Afterall it is only just over 3 months to go till Christmas- it rolls around pretty fast - so i need to get all those photos done now before i have a new pile to do!

This first layout is of my second DD who at 5 (now 6) still believes in Santa. The girls are very lucky as Santa comes to our house for our annual Christmas party in December where the girls ask all their friends and school mates to come. Last year we had 40 kids! Santa arrives and hands out presents and we always get some great shots of the girls with Santa. ( Mainly because its actually their dad! Simon has been a professional Santa since he was 17- and has 2 Santa suits)- only Zoe realises that its actually dad!

Anyway this first layout is of Ella sitting on Santa's knee - i love the look on her face when he asks her what she would like for Christmas and her look of shy awe in the third photo! I used the back side of a heavily patterned Websters page for a change -and added lots of Petaloo flowers and gorgeous Websters sparklers....

Here is a close up shot

The second page i tried to keep pretty simple as Websters pages usually are pretty detailed and i wanted both the page and the photo to be the focus without a whole lot of layering or embellishing. So what to do when you can;t layer? Well how about using a shadow box technique where you cut into the paper and layer behind the photo using lots of pop dots to make it have more dimension. Its hard to tell in the photo but in real life the photo is sunken into the page!

I hope that this has inspired you to get out those old Christmas photos and start scrapping them now so that you are ready for this years gorgeous Christmas photos !

Happy Scrapping!

Francine

Products Used

Webster Pages
Petaloo Mini Bouquet Pansies
Websters Sparklers- Medallions
Kaisercraft flowers
My Minds Eye flowers
Doily
Kaisercraft Mini Alphas Black

Tech Tuesday - Storage Ideas

2011-09-06T19:49:00.010+12:00

Hi,

I know that there were lots of posts on the forum and also on the facebook page which focused on scrapbooking storage ideas so I thought I would base the topic of my Technique Tuesday blog post today around different (and not all expensive) storage solutions.

Of course, wouldn't we all just love to have Clip-it-Up storage (specifically that one that sits on your floor and can hold ALL your embellishments) but in reality I struggle to justify the price for that when I could also be spending that sort of money on the latest products (Prima anyone?). However, I am thinking that maybe Santa could bring me a Clip-it-Up this year... must add that to my wish list for Christmas. However, if you are after Clip-it-Up storage then I know that Adrienne can get that in for you... all you need to do is ask.

For me personally, storage solutions that work best for me are ones that make my scrapbooking supplies visible and easy to find. Nothing worse than spending more time HUNTING for that embellishment that I know I have somewhere but where did I put it? Most of the time, I don't find what I am looking for and have to settle for using something else (only to find that product at a later time!) Also, I find that when I can see the products I have I am more likely to actually use up my scrapbooking supplies. This makes me happy because I am not hoarding and never using and it means I get to go shopping for more newer and exciting supplies (new Prima anyone!).

The second problem I have is how to store my scrapbooking products and also stay portable. Long gone are the days where everything used to fit inside my one little crate which made going out to crops easy and stress free. Now it seems that I have to fill the boot of my car - and that is just for the Martha Stewart punch collection (but that is another story) -- just to go out for half a day.

So... what are the best storage solutions for your scrapbooking supplies? Well in a perfect world I would have one of those rooms (you know like on the Crafty Storage blog), it would be beautiful, it would be white, it would have little baskets and it would be accented in one other colour with beautiful artwork and inspiration on the walls. But sigh, it doesn't seem to be a perfect world right now.

Here are a few ideas that won't break the bank:

Firstly, you can make your own Clip-it-Up storage for embellishments. You will need a metal towel rail (I got mine from Howard's Storage World), some little coat hanger clips (from Plastic Box) and a man (got mine when I got married) to hang it. Attach, it securely to the wall and hang little embellishments from it. I have also put some of my punches on the top of it too.

Secondly, create a perfect punch storage by using an over hanging shoe storage over the back of your door! Punch out the shape and attach to the front of the pocket so you know which punch is inside and you will always have a place for each of your punches.

Thirdly, utilise a spice rack for your glitzes, your spritzes and your mists. It utilises the height of your room and makes a pretty little display for all your mists etc. This photo (and the one above) is actually from Annelie's room and if you look closely you can see she has added a little Clip-it-Up to the bottom of her spice rack as well.

I also like to use little boxes for embellishments which sit on my desk. Which is great as I can pick through them easily and they are portable to take to crops as well. I usually have one for Prima and one for other types of embellishments.

Lastly, an easy cost effective way to make my room look pretty, is to put up some of your layouts on the walls. Unfortunately, I have just packed mine away right now to move house next week but I can show you an example from Annelie's wall. I love that I can put up my latest layouts to get me all inspired before putting them away in albums (or pizza boxes) as I find they don't get looked at as often. It is easy as hanging a piece of string between two picture hooks and pegging up your layouts with little pegs.

I know I could blog all day about different storage solution ideas!! I haven't even really scratched the surface. I know there are many products out there that you can buy such as Cropper Hopper files for paper storage, photo storage products and embellishment storage solutions but I hope this post has helped you get inspired to organise your scrap space where ever it might be.

//Michelle

September Off The Page Challenge

2011-09-05T12:33:00.001+12:00

Hi everyone - it's time to introduce the OTP challenge for September. This month I would like you to make an Artist Trading Card that stands alone as a piece of art, then use your card on a larger item. You can use your ATC on a greeting card, decor item, giftbox or scrapbook page.

If you haven't made an ATC before it is SO easy! Cut your base card at 3.5 inches x 2.5 inches then decorate as desired. Traditionally, Artist Trading Cards are made flat and stored in sleeves designed for baseball cards, but I say break all the rules! Decorate your ATC however you like - you're the artist!

Here's my ATC. I cut apart the petals of my prima flowers so I could adhere them to the back of the sentiment layer exactly how I wanted them.

And here's the card I created using my ATC as the focus....

You can make the ATC removable if you like, I do this sometimes and put a strip of magnetic tape on the back so the inspiring card can be kept on the fridge.

Here's a little peek inside the card....

I hope you'll join in this month and make your very own ATC and use it on a larger item. I can't wait to see what you come up with!

Supplies:
Emma's Shoppe Paper - Crate Paper
Out of Print Paper - Basic Grey
Liquid Pearls in Baby Blue
Barn Door Distress Ink
Crochet Trim
Prima Flowers
Leaf Trim
Button
Twine
Verve Visual Stamps
Verve Curvy Bookplate Die